Beech Fork Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Beech Fork Dam, also known as Beech Fork Lake, is a vital piece of infrastructure in West Virginia that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and fish and wildlife habitat.


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Summary

Constructed in 1976 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 86 feet and spans a length of 1080 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 37,540 acre-feet and a surface area of 720 acres, Beech Fork Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks for downstream communities, such as Lavalette, Shoals, Westmoreland, and West Huntington.

Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, Beech Fork Dam has historically performed well in reducing the risk of flooding to surrounding areas. However, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are continuously updated and improved to address potential threats, such as extreme rainfall events that could lead to overtopping and dam failure. USACE conducts regular inspections, maintenance activities, and risk assessment procedures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and operational readiness, while also collaborating with local emergency management entities to enhance emergency response actions in case of a worst-case scenario.

In conclusion, Beech Fork Dam remains a critical asset for water resource management in West Virginia, providing essential flood protection and recreational opportunities while also requiring ongoing monitoring and risk management efforts to safeguard nearby communities from potential hazards. Through diligent maintenance, inspection, and emergency preparedness, USACE continues to uphold the dam's safety and functionality, demonstrating a commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1080

River Or Stream

BEECH FORK OF TWELVE POLE CK.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

720

Hydraulic Height

58

Drainage Area

78

Nid Storage

37540

Structural Height

86

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

86
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.